How to watch DIRECTV STREAM outside the US with a VPN

Are you eager to catch your favorite shows even while you’re outside the US? We’ve got some fantastic news for you. DIRECTV STREAM might be region-locked, limiting access to the US, but don’t worry. We have expertly researched and tested many VPN solutions. With a VPN, you can effortlessly stream DirecTV from anywhere in the world. Be it while vacationing in Canada, exploring the UK, traveling through Europe, or even soaking up the sun in Australia.

Now, let’s dive into the world of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and uncover the secret behind bypassing those pesky restrictions. A VPN for DirecTV encrypts your device’s internet traffic and redirects it through a server in a US location. Connecting to a server in America grants you a US IP address, granting you unrestricted access to DIRECTV STREAM, no matter where you are.

But hold on, there’s more. It’s not solely about DirecTV; when you tap into a US server, every website and online service believes you’re browsing from the good ol’ US of A. That makes a VPN an invaluable and versatile tool for opening up a world of access while globe-trotting.

Are you strapped for time at the moment? Here’s a quick preview of our researched and tested VPN recommendations that will make watching DIRECTV STREAM outside the USA a breeze.

Best VPNs for DIRECTV STREAM:

1. NordVPN: Our #1 choice for DirecTV STREAM and DirectTV Now. Over 1,600 servers in the US. Works with AT&T TV Now, Netflix, and more streaming sites. Highly secure with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: BBest budget VPN for DirecTV. Unlimited simultaneous connections. Great access to geo-restricted services on any streaming device. User-friendly service with 24/7 chat and strict no-logs policy.
3. ExpressVPN: High-speed VPN service that’s great for streaming your favorite content. Works with DirectTV Now and other platforms. Consistent data connections and an impressive selection of apps.
4. CyberGhost: Vast network of servers. Fast speeds for streaming sites like DirecTV. Secure up to 7 devices simultaneously. Easy-to-use apps and safe with encryption and a no-logs policy.
5. IPVanish: US-based VPN service with servers in 15 US cities to Stream DirecTV and other sites like Amazon and Netflix. Uses encryption to protect your data. Unlimited devices supported.
6. PrivateVPN: Fast and premium VPN service for securely accessing DirecTV Stream as well as Netflix. Beginner-friendly apps, up to 6 simultaneous connections, and a high level of security.
7. Hotspot Shield: Servers in 27 US cities for watching geo-restricted services like DirecTV abroad. Easy-to-use apps and 24/7 live chat support. Secures your device with encryption.

How to watch DIRECTV STREAM outside the US with a VPN

Setting up a VPN is simple, even if you’ve never used one before. Follow this step-by-step guide to watch DirecTV outside the US with a VPN.

Here’s how to watch DIRECTV STREAM online from anywhere using a VPN:

1. Sign up for a VPN service with servers in the United States – we particularly recommend NordVPN.
2. Download and install the appropriate VPN app for your device. All of the best VPNs offer apps for desktop and mobile devices.
3. Clear your browser cache and cookies. This ensures that DirecTV forgets your location and accepts the US IP address provided by the VPN.
4. Open your VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server in the US to obtain a US IP address for unblocking DirecTV Stream.
5. Sign in to DirecTV and select your preferred on-demand content, which should now be unblocked.

If you’re having trouble watching DirecTV Stream outside the US, even when connected to a VPN, we have a few suggestions. First, be sure to clear your cookies each time you connect to a new server before trying DirecTV again. Trying more than one server is another potential fix in case the IP address you’re using has been blacklisted. Last but not least, it may be worth contacting your VPN’s customer support for further help.

Best VPNs for watching DIRECTV STREAM outside the US

So how are you supposed to go about choosing a VPN to unblock DirectTV abroad? We know that there are many VPNs to choose from. That’s why we’ve only selected VPNs that can provide the following:

• Multiple servers across the US
• Fast and reliable data connections for streaming DirecTV Stream
• Secure with encryption and kill switch feature
• Strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy
• Easy-to-use apps for desktop and mobile
• Customer support available via live chat and email

For more information on how we recommend VPNs, check out our VPN testing methodology.

Here’s our list of the best VPNs to watch DIRECTV STREAM (formerly known as AT&T TV Now and AT&T Watch) from outside the US:

1. NordVPN

Sep 2023 works with DirecTVTested Sep 2023

NordVPN is the best option if you want a VPN to stream DirecTV Stream outside the US. The reason for this is that NordVPN has around 1,900 servers in the United States. Indeed, it has one of the largest networks of servers of any VPN with more than 5,000 in 60 countries. This means you’ll be able to securely access all sorts of services including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Better still, NordVPN offers great value, letting you connect up to 6 supported devices simultaneously.

Having tested out the NordVPN apps for ourselves, we can say that this service is great for beginners. We particularly like that NordVPN offers specialty servers for even stronger security. There are servers designed for accessing Tor over VPN, getting a dedicated IP address, and browsing from countries with strict censorship. NordVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption, provides protection from DNS leaks, and has a kill switch. What’s more, this service has a strict zero-logs policy.

NordVPN apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Android TV. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also offered. Manual setup is required for routers.

BEST VPN FOR DIRECTV STREAM:NordVPN has over 1,900 servers in the US and more than 5,000 worldwide. Works with DirecTV Stream (formerly AT&T TV Now), Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Features 24/7 support and allows up to 6 connections. Protects your privacy with encryption and no-logs policy. The 30-day money-back guarantee means you can try it risk-free.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

works with DirecTVTested Sep 2023

Surfshark has servers in at least 24 US cities which is far more than most VPNs. This makes it easy to find a fast, reliable server for streaming DirecTV from anywhere in the world. Indeed, this VPN also works with the likes of Netflix, Disney+, and HBO, among other popular streaming content services. However, one of the standout features of Surfshark is that it lets you connect an unlimited number of compatible devices simultaneously which is perfect for sharing with family.

If you’re new to using a VPN, you’ll appreciate Surfshark’s beginner-friendly apps and browser extensions. There are plenty of interesting features available including double VPN servers for improved privacy and an ad and malware blocker. Surfshark uses 256-bit AES encryption to safeguard your data. There’s also a kill switch and protection from DNS leaks. This is a no-logs VPN service that allows you to pay in cryptocurrency to protect your anonymity.

You can use Surfshark to watch DirecTV Stream via the apps for Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. You can also download Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. Manual configuration is required for Linux and routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark lets you secure as many devices as you want simultaneously. It has servers across 24 US cities and works reliably with DirecTV and Netflix. Very easy-to-use apps, a low price, and 24/7 live chat support. 30-day money-back guarantee.

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3. ExpressVPN

works with DirecTVTested Sep 2023

ExpressVPN is great for watching DirecTV outside the US. This is thanks to its combination of speed and security. ExpressVPN has a vast network of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including the US. We’ve tested ExpressVPN’s servers extensively and found them to be perfect for streaming movies and TV shows in high definition. We’ve also found that the VPN connection almost never drops. Indeed, ExpressVPN guarantees 99.9% uptime.

What makes ExpressVPN stand out from many of its rivals is its impressive array of apps. Aside from offering user-friendly apps for desktop and mobile, it also has MediaStreamer, a smart DNS proxy service that allows you to use the VPN with select smart TVs and games consoles. Another reason to choose ExpressVPN is its fast and efficient live chat support, which is available 24/7, allowing you to get help in a matter of seconds.

The best VPNs can unblock geo-restricted content such as DirecTV while keeping you safe online. ExpressVPN is no exception. It secures your data with 256-bit AES encryption and provides DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. ExpressVPN offers a kill switch, split tunneling, and a no-logs policy, so your privacy is in good hands. It’s even possible to sign up for the service anonymously by using a throwaway email address and paying in Bitcoin.

ExpressVPN has apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers. Browser extensions are available for Chrome and Firefox.

QUICK AND RELIABLE:ExpressVPN is a solid choice. for streaming DirecTV, with both speed and security. Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries. Wide range of user-friendly apps, 24/7 support and excellent security with encryption. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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4. CyberGhost

works with DirecTVTested Sep 2023

CyberGhost has a vast network of over 7,400 servers, over 1,100 of which are in the US. When you combine this with the high data speeds offered, CyberGhost is an excellent VPN for watching DirecTV abroad. We’ve tested CyberGhost with a wide range of content and found it offers high-quality performance with little to no downtime. It’s worth mentioning that you can secure up to seven supported devices with CyberGhost, which is more than most VPNs allow.

You’ll find that CyberGhost offers a variety of user-friendly apps. These are easy to navigate and therefore well-suited to those using a VPN for the first time. The CyberGhost apps include several features such as an ad-blocker and malware-scanner. CyberGhost offers a high level of security with 256-bit AES encryption and DNS and IP leak protection. An automatic kill switch ensures your internet traffic is cut in the event of the VPN connection dropping. Last but not least, there’s a strict no-logs policy.

CyberGhost offers apps for Windows, Android, Mac, Linux, iOS, Amazon Fire Stick, and Android TV. There are also browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. Routers require manual configuration.

AMAZING VALUE:CyberGhost has fast and reliable connections for streaming DirecTV abroad. It has apps that are easy to use and allows up to 7 simultaneous connections. Security features include a kill switch and no-logs policy. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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5. IPVanish

works with DirecTVTested Sep 2023

IPVanish is a US-based VPN service that is able to unblock DirecTV abroad. It offers just over 1,900 servers, approximately half of which are in the United States. The US-based servers of IPVanish are spread across some 15 US cities including Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. IPVanish states that it offers unlimited access and this is apparent in the fast speeds you’ll experience when browsing and streaming. This VPN is known to be particularly easy to use with Kodi and Amazon Fire Stick / Fire TV.

Best of all, IPVanish allows you to connect as many devices as you like (most VPNs allow 3-6). Its apps are simple enough to use though live chat support is offered should you need it. IPVanish ticks all of the boxes when it comes to security, protecting your data with 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and zero-logs policy.

IPVanish provides apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. Manual setup is needed in the case of Linux and routers.

SERVERS IN 15 US CITIES:IPVanish has plenty of servers in the US in cities such as Los Angeles and New York. Unlimited bandwidth makes it easy to watch DirecTV Stream (formerly AT&T TV Now). Allows any number of internet connections via a single account. Keeps you safe online with encryption and kill switch. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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6. PrivateVPN

works with DirecTVTested Sep 2023

PrivateVPN is a smaller VPN service with around 200 servers. However, this service offers very high speeds, and allows you to connect to 10 different US cities including Las Vegas and New York. PrivateVPN is one of the better VPNs when it comes to unblocking geo-restricted content. In fact, it not only lets you watch DirecTV outside the US, but it’s also able to securely access major platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

You can use this service to protect up to six compatible devices simultaneously via a single account. Offering easy-to-use apps for desktop and mobile, this VPN is very accessible. PrivateVPN offers security in the form of 256-bit AES encryption, IPv6 leak protection, Stealth mode (for using the service in places where VPNs are usually blocked), and a kill switch. This VPN service is headquartered in Sweden and states that it operates a zero data-logging policy.

PrivateVPN offers apps for desktop (Windows and Mac) and mobile (Android and iOS). Manual setup is necessary for Linux and routers.

HIGH SPEED STREAMING:PrivateVPN is fast and ideal for DirecTV Stream as well as Netflix. Its apps are easy to use and it allows you to connect up to 6 supported devices. Includes all of the essential security features including encryption, kill switch, and no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. Hotspot Shield

works with DirecTVTested Sep 2023

Hotspot Shield has a network of more than 1,800 servers. Just as impressive, it has server locations in 27 US cities including Los Angeles and New York. Needless to say, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to finding a server to stream DirecTV abroad. It offers very good speeds for streaming services without buffering issues and lag. It’s possible to secure up to five devices simultaneously via a single Hotspot Shield account.

While this VPN service is beginner-friendly, it includes 24/7 live chat support which makes it easy to troubleshoot any potential problems. Security-wise, Hotspot Shield protects your privacy through its use of 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and features such as a kill switch. It’s also worth knowing that it doesn’t keep any logs by which you can be identified such as IP addresses.

Hotspot Shield apps are available for iOS, Android, MacOS, Linux, and Windows. It can be manually configured for use with supported routers.

SERVERS IN 27 US CITIES:Hotspot Shield unblocks DirecTV and has lots of high speed servers in the US. Also works with Netflix. Includes 24/7 live chat support and uses encryption to keep your data secure. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Hotspot Shield review.

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Our DirecTV VPN Methodology

The online marketplace is saturated with VPNs that are competing for your business. There are around 100 different consumer-facing VPNs available, but they were not all created equally. Many VPNs offer a substandard service while claiming to be the best. This makes it hard for consumers to pick a VPN that is suitable for their needs.

At Comparitech, our experts use a precise methodology to test and compare market-leading VPNs. We look under the hood to see how each VPN implements its security and test VPN apps for leaks to find out whether they are working as advertised. We also check each VPN’s performance to see whether it is suitable for playing games, streaming, and other data-intensive tasks.

Our VPN testing method has been perfected over many years, giving our experts the ability to understand the nuances between VPNs and to recommend services for specific use cases (such as watching DirecTV) with confidence.

For added transparency, we have included some of the key features we looked for when recommending the best VPNs for DirecTV below:

1. Reliable apps for all platforms. We check the VPN apps to ensure we only recommend VPNs with strong encryption, and plenty of useful security features such as a kill switch, DNS leak protection, AES encryption, obfuscation, ad blocking, and malware filtering.
2. Ease of use. VPN apps should be well-designed and should not create a barrier to entry for beginners even when they have a wide choice of advanced features. We recommend VPNs that explain their features clearly, label everything properly, and provide excellent resources and support to help with setting up and using the VPN.
3. A large server network. To watch DirecTV STREAM you require fast servers in the US that haven’t been blocked by the popular TV provider. We look for VPNs that have these servers, as well as a global server network that gives you the freedom to access a wide choice of international services.
4. Excellent accessibility. Most VPNs fall short when it comes to accessing popular online services from abroad. We try to recommend as many VPNs that work to watch Netflix, iPlayer, Hulu, and other services that are known for successfully blocking VPNs.
5. Advanced features. We search for VPNs that represent outstanding value for money by giving you a wide choice of privacy and security features at a fair price. Extra points for advanced features such as split tunneling, port forwarding, multi-hop, ad blocking, and Tor over VPN.

Can I use a free VPN to watch DIRECTV STREAM outside the US?

Free VPNs won’t work with DirecTV, this is because streaming platforms make every effort to block VPNs and free VPN providers don’t have the time or capital to stay one step ahead.

In addition, we don’t recommend free VPNs for many reasons. In particular, free VPNs are very slow because they have too many users and not enough servers. This results in high levels of server congestion. This makes streaming DirecTV frustrating due to buffering.

It’s not just performance issues that plague free VPNs, either. When it comes to security, free VPNs are rarely fit for purpose.  In many cases, your data is not secured with robust encryption. And the VPN apps lack important security features such as a kill switch. Additionally, some free VPNs knowingly breach your privacy by keeping logs and selling your data to third parties.

Why has AT&T TV Now changed its name?

In August of 2021, AT&T finalized a deal in which it spun off DIRECTV, U-Verse, and AT&T TV (including AT&T TV Now and AT&T TV Watch) into a separate entity. The deal involved selling a 30% stake of the business to the private equity firm TPG Capital. AT&T retains a 70% stake in the new standalone firm.

The new company, which is called DirecTV, has now taken over all of AT&T TV’s operations. As a result of the shake-up, the new corporation has decided to close down all its former TV streaming services. For this reason, the new business has rebranded its streaming platform with the name DIRECTV STREAM.

DirecTV Stream will now replace all the other iterations of AT&T’s online streaming TV services. It will be available in three different plans starting at $69.99 per month plus tax. The most expensive plan (the Ultimate Package) will cost $94.99 and will include 130+ channels including regional sports networks.

HBO Max is included with a DirecTV Stream Choice and Ultimate package for the first three months. Following that t must be bundled as an extra for an additional $10 per month.

Why am I getting a DirecTV location error?

One problem some users have when trying to watch DirecTV Stream abroad is that they’re asked to enable location data on their device. The problem is that this can override the VPN connection, providing your true location and blocking the content as a result. In this case, you may see a message that looks like this:

“We couldn’t figure out your location, which is required for streaming this program. Please try again.”

If this is happening to you, you may be out of luck. To bypass such restrictions, you’d need to find a way to spoof your location such as with a GPS spoofing app. It may simply be better to find a service without such strict geo-restrictions. If you do go ahead, exercise caution as GPS spoofing can have a negative impact on other apps.

Can I use a smart DNS proxy to watch DirecTV abroad?

Yes, some smart DNS proxy services will unblock DirecTV Stream, however VPNs are often more reliable. A smart DNS proxy monitors DNS requests sent from your device and sends the browser traffic for that request to an appropriate server (in this case a server in the US). One of the advantages of a smart DNS proxy is that it can be used on a wider range of devices than a VPN.

For example, DirecTV is available on devices such as Apple TV and Samsung Smart TV. Most VPNs don’t support such devices, which is where a smart DNS proxy stands out. On the other hand, setting up a smart DNS proxy can be more complicated. We recommend ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer, a smart DNS proxy service that lets you unblock geo-restricted content without encrypting your online traffic, minimizing speed loss.

What can I watch on DirecTV Stream?

DIRECTV STREAM (formerly AT&T TV Now) offers a wide range of live and on-demand content from traditional cable channels. Some of the entertainment channels include:

• ABC
• CNN
• Disney
• ESPN
• FS1
• FX
• HBO Max
• MTV
• National Geographic
• Nickelodeon
• TNT
• USA Network

DIRECTV STREAM FAQ